Like many library organizations, the Marshall County Library offers thousands upon thousands of different books suiting all ages and reading levels. Different from other systems however, our county ‘s offers many other activities, programs and educational tools.

“Use of the Library continues to grow as our services expand,” Director Kristi Tucker said. “Marshall County Public Library System had more than 215,000 visitors last year and circulated more than 500,000 items.”

“More and more people are using our OverDrive system,” Lenisa Jones, Benton Branch Manager said. The OverDrive system is a service containing downloads for eBooks, audiobooks and other digital content offered at any branch and online with your library card number.

Many other programs are offered through the library’s website, www.marshallcountylibrary.org, as well. “Freegal is starting to get really popular,” Jones said. Freegal is a downloadable music service that offers access to about 3 million songs. Each week, with your library card, you get 5 free downloads.

Over ten different databases are offered online as well, providing information about an array of categories. Some of the databases are:

• Ancestry.com is a genealogy company that operates a network of genealogical and historical record websites focused on the U.S. and nine foreign countries. Accessible through any local branch.

• Career Transitions is a database that helps you with job searching and career exploration, as well as building a resume and successful interview strategies. Accessible though any local branch.

• ChiltonLibrary provides exclusive details, photographs and step-by-step repair procedures about repairing and maintaining your vehicle. Accessible through any local branch and online.

• Learning Express offers the practice tests, exercises, skill-building courses, eBooks, and other information in regards to tests such as the ACT, SAT and nursing exams. Accessible through any local branch and online.

• Legal Forms offers thousands of legal forms available with more forms being added daily. Official, State Specific, Federal, Business, Personal, Real Estate and General forms covering hundreds of legal subjects and issues. Accessible through any local branch and online.

• Mango Languages contains lessons for learning a new language, multiple languages to chose from. Accessible through any local branch and online.

• TumbleBook is a collection of talking, animated, picture books that teaches children about reading. Accessible through any local branch and online once registered.

Marshall County Public Library System also offers many social events and programs for residents. Each branch has its own after school program for students 6th grade and under, along with another after school program for young adults. The library system plays a big role in Marshall County’s family week, “We had multiple programs here this year for that week, our entire building was packed,” Jones explained. “We had no idea that many people were going to show up.”

Another large event hosted by the library is the annual “Lego Night” which over 250 people attended in November.

The library is starting a new informative series of programs next week, “Lunch and Learn.” The first workshop will be with information regarding wills and estate planning. Following that will be the “I Love to Read” program which is for adults 18 and older. Shortly after the “Summer Read” program will start for children. “More and more people are taking advantage of our programs being offered - which is great.” Jones said.

Marshall County has over 29,000 registered card members, three different library branches and a bookmobile. The bookmobile stops at numerous nursing homes, schools and locations and carries a variety of books and dvds. The main branch is located at 1003 Poplar Street in Benton. They are opened Mon. and Thurs. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Tues. Wed., Fri. and Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Calvert City branch is located at 23 Park Rd. and is open Mon. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Tues. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.. The Hardin branch is located at 4640 Murray Hwy. and is open Mon. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Tues. - Sat. from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.